Pronunciation: [ɡɹˈɒti] (IPA) 
The word "grotty" is an informal British slang term used to describe something that is dirty, unattractive or unpleasant. It is pronounced /ˈɡrɒti/ and spelled with a "g" followed by an "r" and two "t"s. The "o" is pronounced with a short sound /ɒ/, like in the word "hot," and the "y" is pronounced with an /i/ sound, as in the word "city." This word has been in use since the 1960s and is commonly used in British English today.
Grotty is an adjective used to describe something that is extremely unpleasant, dirty, or unattractive. It is typically used to describe the condition or quality of a place, object, or situation that is grimy, unkempt, or in a state of disrepair. This term is primarily used in British English and is considered informal.
The word grotty often carries connotations of filth, grime, and general neglect. It suggests a lack of cleanliness and hygiene, with an overall unappealing or even repulsive appearance. For instance, a grotty room may be dirty, cluttered, or have unsanitary conditions. Similarly, a grotty neighborhood may be characterized by dilapidated buildings, garbage strewn streets, or an overall dingy ambiance.
The term grotty is also used metaphorically to describe something that is unattractive or undesirable in a non-physical sense. For example, a grotty job may refer to a menial or unpleasant occupation, while a grotty situation may describe one that is unpleasant, unfavorable, or even dangerous.
While grotty is often associated with negative attributes, it can also be used humorously or playfully, particularly when describing less serious matters. In this context, it may be used to describe something that is quirky, shabby chic, or retro. However, the underlying implication of grotty remains the same – that something is unclean, run-down, or generally unappealing.
The word "grotty" is believed to have originated in British English in the 1960s. It was popularized by the British rock band, The Beatles, specifically by their manager Brian Epstein.
The term is thought to be a combination of the words "grotesque" and "rotten". "Grotesque" refers to something comically or repulsively ugly or distorted, while "rotten" means decayed or decomposed. The fusion of these words resulted in "grotty", a slang term used to describe something dirty, shabby, unpleasant, or generally unattractive.
The term gained popularity during the "Swinging Sixties" era in London, where countercultural youth movements rejected the traditional norms of society. It was often used to describe the gritty or grimy aspects of urban life during this period.
